Introduction
Valentine’s Day is the perfect occasion to spread love and joy, and what better way to do that than with a batch of Cupid’s Trash Can Cookies? These delightful treats are a whimsical blend of sweet and salty, packed with colorful M&M candies, crunchy pretzels, and rich chocolate chips. Each bite is a burst of flavor, and their charm lies in their unique variety of textures and tastes. Perfect for sharing with friends, family, or that special someone, these cookies will certainly make your Valentine’s celebrations extra sweet!
Ingredients
- 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
- 1 cup brown sugar, packed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 large eggs
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup crushed pretzels
- 1 cup M&M candies
- 1 cup chocolate chips
- 1 cup chopped nuts (optional)
- 1 cup shredded coconut (optional)
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 3 dozen cookies
Directions and Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line baking sheets with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter, brown sugar, and granulated sugar until smooth and fluffy. The mixture should have a light color and a creamy texture.
- Add in the eggs one at a time, beating well after each addition. Stir in the delightful aroma of vanilla extract.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the all-purpose flour, baking soda, and salt. Gradually add this dry mixture to the wet ingredients, mixing until just combined—be careful not to overmix!
- Gently fold in the crushed pretzels, M&M candies, chocolate chips, and if you’re feeling adventurous, the optional chopped nuts and shredded coconut.
- Using a tablespoon, drop balls of cookie dough onto the prepared baking sheets, ensuring there’s some space between each to allow for spreading as they bake.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes, or until the edges of the cookies are beautifully golden brown.
- Once baked, allow the cookies to cool on the baking sheets for a few minutes before transferring them to wire racks to cool completely. This will help them maintain a chewy center!
Notes or Tips
For a fun twist, customize these cookies with your favorite mix-ins! Consider adding dried fruit or swapping out chocolate chips for white chocolate or butterscotch for a different flavor profile. Experimenting can lead to delicious surprises.
Make sure to measure your flour accurately for the best results. Too much flour can lead to dry cookies, while too little can affect the texture. A kitchen scale is a great investment for precise baking!
Cooking Techniques
To achieve that perfect cookie texture, it’s essential to cream the butter and sugars together until fluffy. This incorporates air into the dough, helping to create light cookies. Remember to let the butter soften at room temperature before mixing for the best results!
Baking on parchment paper not only prevents sticking but also assists in achieving even baking. For chewier cookies, you can slightly underbake them, allowing carryover cooking to finish the job as they cool.
FAQ
Can I freeze these cookies?
Absolutely! After baking, allow the cookies to cool completely, then place them in an airtight container or freezer bag to maintain their freshness. They can be frozen for up to three months. Just thaw them at room temperature when you’re ready to enjoy!
Are there any nut-free options?
Yes! Simply omit the nuts or replace them with additional pretzels or chocolate chips. These cookies are versatile and can easily accommodate various dietary preferences.
Conclusion
Cupid’s Trash Can Cookies are not only a treat for your taste buds, but they also add a playful element to your Valentine’s Day festivities. With their delightful mix of flavors and textures, these cookies are sure to bring smiles to everyone who takes a bite. So gather your loved ones, get baking, and share the love—one sweet cookie at a time!